Does the Bite and Jaw Joint Affect Body Alignment?

Dr. Michele D’Attilio and his team attempted to answer this question in a controlled study. They altered the bite in rats and observed changes in spinal curvature using X-rays.

In a group of fifteen rats, the bite and function of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) were modified by attaching a composite resin insert to the first molar on the upper right side for one week. During this week, all the test subjects developed scoliosis of the spine. After one week, the same insert was applied to the left side, which balanced the bite and TMJ function. Within a week, 83% of the test rats showed either full correction or significant improvement in spinal alignment.

The study clearly shows that the bite and TMJ significantly impact the spinal axis and the entire musculoskeletal system, not just in terms of function but also in structure. A 2011 large-scale review supports the link between unilateral bite disorders (unilateral malocclusion) and scoliosis. The review also highlights a higher likelihood of crossbite and midline dental shifts in children with scoliosis. There is compelling evidence that even a limited range of lateral (side-to-side) jaw movement increases the risk of developing scoliosis.

There is a reciprocal relationship between the TMJ and the rest of the body: the bite (occlusion) and TMJ significantly affect both the function and anatomy of the musculoskeletal system. Conversely, a scoliotic spinal alignment can contribute to temporomandibular dysfunction and bite asymmetry. In children, where growth is not yet complete, it is particularly beneficial to address these issues early to allow for normal physiological development. If we consider the TMJ as an additional “compensatory curve of the spine” when evaluating scoliosis, we may achieve more successful outcomes in our work. In the future, we might take an even bolder step—linking not just the TMJ but also the positioning of teeth to posture, using dental corrections as a therapeutic tool to influence the musculoskeletal system. The body demands a holistic approach, both in thought and action.